Solderless directly written heating elements

ABSTRACT

A personal vapor inhaling unit is disclosed. An electronic flameless vapor inhaler unit t may simulate a cigarette. A flow of electrical power may be coupled through solderless pressure contacts to activate a heating element. When the unit is activated, and the user provides suction, the liquid to be vaporized may be vaporized by an atomizer assembly. Vapors may then be aspirated by the user through an oral aspiration tube, where they may be inhaled.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. Ser. No. 13/698,020, filed Nov. 14, 2012, which is a U.S. Nationalstage application of PCT/US2011/036600, filed May 16, 2011, which is acontinuation-in-part of the following U.S. applications filed on May 15,2010: Ser. No. 12/780,871, entitled “PERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER WITHMOUTHPIECE COVER”, docket number 1222.0002; Ser. No. 12/780,872,entitled “ACTIVATION TRIGGER FOR A PERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER”, docketnumber 1222.0003; Ser. No. 12/780,873, entitled “PERSONAL VAPORIZINGINHALER CARTRIDGE”, docket number 1222.0004; Ser. No. 12/780,874,entitled “ATOMIZER-VAPORIZER FOR A PERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER”, docketnumber 1222.0005, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,068; Ser. No. 12/780,875,entitled “PERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER WITH INTERNAL LIGHT SOURCE”,docket number 1222.0006; Ser. No. 12/780,876, entitled “DATA LOGGINGPERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER”, docket number 1222.0007; and, Ser. No.12/780,877, entitled “PERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER ACTIVE CASE”, docketnumber 1222.0008, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,314,591; whose applications arehereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. U.S. Ser. No.13/698,020 is also a continuation-in-part of the following PCTapplications filed on Apr. 12, 2011: International application No.PCT/US2011/032016 entitled “VOLUME LIQUID STORAGE RESERVOIR IN APERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER”, docket number 1222.0013W0 andInternational application No. PCT/US2011/032025 entitled “ELECTRICALACTIVATION IN A PERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER”, docket number 1222.0014W0;whose applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference for allpurposes.

This application is related to the following PCT International patentapplications filed on May 16, 2011: Application NumberPCT/US2011/036605, entitled “PERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER WITH SPLATTERSHIELD”, docket number 1222.0018W0, Application NumberPCT/US2011/036609, entitled “PERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER WITH HEATINGELEMENT SUPPORT”, docket number 1222.0019W0 and Application NumberPCT/US2011/036614, entitled “PERSONAL VAPORIZING INHALER WITH SAFETYWICK”, docket number 1222.0020WO; whose applications are herebyincorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to personal vapor inhaling units and moreparticularly to an atomizer/vaporizer of an electronic flameless vaporinhaler unit that may simulate a cigarette or deliver nicotine and othermedications to the oral mucosa, pharyngeal mucosa, tracheal, andpulmonary membranes.

BACKGROUND

An alternative to smoked tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars,or pipes is a personal vaporizer. Inhaled doses of heated and atomizedflavor provide a physical sensation similar to smoking However, becausea personal vaporizer is typically electrically powered, no tobacco,smoke, or combustion is usually involved in its operation. Forportability, and to simulate the physical characteristics of acigarette, cigar, or pipe, a personal vaporizer may be battery powered.In addition, a personal vaporizer may be loaded with a nicotine bearingsubstance and/or a medication bearing substance. The personal vaporizermay provide an inhaled dose of nicotine and/or medication by way of theheated and atomized substance. Thus, personal vaporizers may also beknown as electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes. Personal vaporizers maybe used to administer flavors, medicines, drugs, or substances that arevaporized and then inhaled.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a personal vaporizer unit.

FIG. 2 is a side view of a personal vaporizer unit.

FIG. 3 is an end view of the proximal end of a personal vaporizer unit.

FIG. 4 is an end view of the distal end of a personal vaporizer unit.

FIG. 4A is an end view of the distal end of a personal vaporizer unithaving an embossed cartridge.

FIG. 5 is a figure map of FIGS. 6 and 7.

FIG. 6 is a cross-section of the proximal portion of a personalvaporizer unit along the cut line shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 7 is a cross-section of the distal portion of a personal vaporizerunit along the cut line shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 8 is an exploded side view of components of a personal vaporizerunit.

FIG. 9 is an exploded cross-section of components of a personalvaporizer unit along the cut line shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a mouthpiece cover of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 11 is a distal end view of the mouthpiece cover of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a cross-section of the mouthpiece cover along the cut lineshown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a mouthpiece of a personal vaporizerunit.

FIG. 14 is a side view of the mouthpiece of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a cross-section of the mouthpiece along the cut line shown inFIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a mouthpiece insulator of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 17 is a distal end view of the mouthpiece insulator of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the mouthpiece insulator of FIG. 16.

FIG. 19 is a cross-section of the mouthpiece insulator along the cutline shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a main housing of a personal vaporizerunit.

FIG. 21 is a distal end view of the main housing of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a proximal end view of the main housing of FIG. 20.

FIG. 23 is a side view of the main housing of FIG. 20.

FIG. 24 is a cross-section of the main housing along the cut line shownin FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a main housing of a personal vaporizerunit.

FIG. 26 is a second perspective view of the main housing of FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a distal end view of the main housing of FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 is a proximal end view of the main housing of FIG. 25.

FIG. 29 is a side view of the main housing of FIG. 25.

FIG. 30 is a cross-section of the main housing along the cut line shownin FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a printed circuit board (PCB orPC-board) assembly of a personal vaporizer unit.

FIG. 32 is a distal end view of the PCB assembly of FIG. 31.

FIG. 33 is a perspective exploded view of the PCB assembly of FIG. 31.

FIG. 34 is a side exploded view of the PCB assembly of FIG. 31.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a proximal wick element of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 35A is a perspective view of a heating element disposed through aproximal wick element of a personal vaporizer unit.

FIG. 35B is a perspective view of a heating element of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 36 is a distal end view of the wick element of FIG. 35.

FIG. 37 is a cross-section of the wick element along the cut line shownin FIG. 35.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a distal wick element of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 39 is a distal end view of the wick element of FIG. 38.

FIG. 40 is a cross-section of the wick element along the cut line shownin FIG. 39.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a distal wick element of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 42 is a distal end view of the wick element of FIG. 41.

FIG. 43 is a cross-section of the wick element along the cut line shownin FIG. 42.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of an atomizer housing of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 45 is a distal end view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 44.

FIG. 46 is a side view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 44.

FIG. 47 is a top view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 44.

FIG. 48 is a cross-section of the atomizer housing along the cut lineshown in FIG. 47.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of an atomizer housing of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 50 is a distal end view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 49.

FIG. 51 is a side view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 49.

FIG. 52 is a top view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 49.

FIG. 53 is a cross-section of the atomizer housing along the cut lineshown in FIG. 52.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of an atomizer housing and wicks of apersonal vaporizer unit.

FIG. 55 is an exploded view of the atomizer housing, wire guides, andwicks of FIG. 54.

FIG. 56 is a side view of the atomizer housing and wicks of FIG. 54.

FIG. 57 is a distal end view of the atomizer housing and wicks of FIG.54.

FIG. 58 is a cross-section of the atomizer housing and wicks along thecut line shown in FIG. 57.

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of the proximal end wick and wire guidesof FIGS. 54-58.

FIG. 59A is a perspective view showing a heating element disposedthrough the proximal end wick and around the wire guides of FIGS. 54-58.

FIG. 59B is a perspective view of the heating element of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 60 is a distal end view of the wick element of FIGS. 54-58.

FIG. 61 is a cross-section of the wick element and wire guides along thecut line shown in FIG. 60.

FIG. 62 is a perspective view of a light pipe sleeve of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 63 is an end view of the light pipe sleeve of FIG. 62.

FIG. 64 is a cross-section of the light pipe sleeve along the cut lineshown in FIG. 63.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a cartridge of a personal vaporizerunit.

FIG. 66 is a proximal end view of the cartridge of FIG. 65.

FIG. 67 is a side view of the cartridge of FIG. 65.

FIG. 68 is a top view of the cartridge of FIG. 65.

FIG. 69 is a cross-section of the cartridge along the cut line shown inFIG. 66.

FIG. 70 is a side view of a battery of a personal vaporizer unit.

FIG. 71 is an end view of the battery of FIG. 70.

FIG. 72 is a perspective view of a battery support of a personalvaporizer unit.

FIG. 73 is a perspective view of a personal vaporizer unit case.

FIG. 74 is a perspective view of a personal vaporizer unit case.

FIG. 75 is a block diagram of a computer system.

FIGS. 76A-76S show various views of another vaporizer embodiment.

FIGS. 77A-77F are various sequential views illustrating vaporizeroperation.

FIG. 78 shows an alternative embodiment.

FIG. 79 shows another alternative embodiment.

FIGS. 80A and 80B show yet another alternative embodiment.

FIG. 81 is a flow diagram of a vaporizer operation process according toone embodiment.

FIG. 82 is a flow diagram of a vaporizer assembly process according toone embodiment.

FIG. 83 illustrates a perspective view of a directly written heatingelement disposed through a proximal wick element of a personal vaporizerunit.

FIG. 83A illustrates an end view of contact points for a directlywritten heating element disposed through a proximal wick element of apersonal vaporizer unit.

FIG. 84 is a perspective view showing directly written heating elementsdisposed on the wire guides of FIGS. 54-58.

FIG. 85 illustrates two opposing side views of a wire guide that has adirectly written heating element.

FIG. 86 illustrates two opposing side views of a support element thathas a directly written heating element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In an embodiment a personal vaporizer unit comprises a mouthpiececonfigured for contact with the mouth of a person. At least part of thismouthpiece has an antimicrobial surface. This mouthpiece may alsocomprise silicone rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, organosilane, silverimpregnated polymer, silver impregnated thermoplastic elastomer, and/orpolymer. The mouthpiece may be removed from the personal vaporizing forwashing or replacement, without using a tool. The mouthpiece may beprovided in different colors. Designs or other patterns may be visibleon the outside of the mouthpiece.

In an embodiment, a personal vaporizer unit comprises a first conductivesurface configured to contact a first body part of a person holding thepersonal vaporizer unit, and a second conductive surface, conductivelyisolated from the first conductive surface, configured to contact asecond body part of the person. When the personal vaporizer unit detectsa change in conductivity between the first conductive surface and thesecond conductive surface, a vaporizer is activated to vaporize asubstance so that the vapors may be inhaled by the person holding unit.The first body part and the second body part may be a lip or parts of ahand(s). The two conductive surfaces may also be used to charge abattery contained in the personal vaporizer unit. The two conductivesurfaces may also form, or be part of, a connector that may be used tooutput data stored in a memory.

In an embodiment, a personal vaporizer unit comprises a chamberconfigured to receive a cartridge. The cartridge may hold a substance tobe vaporized. The chamber may be configured at the distal end of thepersonal vaporizer unit. A user may inhale the vaporized substance atthe proximal end of the personal vaporizer unit. At least one spacebetween the exterior surface of the cartridge, and an interior surfaceof the chamber, may define a passage for air to be drawn from outsidethe personal vaporizer unit, near the distal end, through the personalvaporizer unit to be inhaled by the user along with the vaporizedsubstance. The personal vaporizer unit may also include a puncturingelement that breaks a seal on the cartridge to allow a substance in thecartridge to be vaporized. An end surface of the cartridge may betranslucent to diffuse light produced internally to the personalvaporizer unit. The translucent end may be etched or embossed withletters, symbols, or other indicia that are illuminated by the lightproduced internally to the personal vaporizer unit.

In an embodiment, a personal vaporizer unit comprises a first wickelement and a second wick element having a porous ceramic. The firstwick element is adapted to directly contact a liquid held in areservoir. The reservoir may be contained by a cartridge that isremovable from the personal vaporizer unit. A heating element isdisposed through the second wick element. An air gap is defined betweenthe first wick element and the second wick element with the heatingelement exposed to the air gap. Air enters the first wick elementthrough a hole in a housing holding the first wick element.

In an embodiment, a personal vaporizer unit comprises a light sourceinternal to an opaque cylindrical housing that approximates theappearance of a smoking article. A cylindrical light tube is disposedinside the opaque cylindrical housing to conduct light emitted by thelight source to an end of the opaque cylindrical housing. This allowsthe light to be visible outside of the opaque cylindrical housing of thevaporizer.

In an embodiment, a personal vaporizer unit comprises a microprocessor,memory, and a connector. The connector outputs data stored in thememory. The microprocessor may gather, and store in the memory,information including, but not limited to, the number of cycles thedevice has been triggered, the duration of the cycles, the numbercartridges of fluid that are delivered. The microprocessor may alsogather and store times and dates associated with the other informationgathered and stored. The microprocessor may detect an empty cartridge bydetecting a specific change in resistance between a wick and a housingthat is equivalent to a “dry wick”, and thus signifies an emptycartridge.

In an embodiment, a case comprises a cradle adapted to hold a personalvaporizer unit. The personal vaporizer unit has dimensions approximatinga smoking article. The case includes a battery and at least twocontacts. The two contacts may form an electrical contact with thepersonal vaporizer unit when the personal vaporizer unit is in thecradle. The two contacts may conduct charge from the battery to thepersonal vaporizer unit to charge the personal vaporizer unit. The casemay also download and store data retrieved from the personnel vaporizingunit. The case may download and store this data via the at least twocontacts. The case may send this data to a computer via wired orwireless links. The case may have more than one cradle and sets ofcontacts (e.g., two sets of two contacts in order to hold and charge twopersonal vaporizer units).

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a personal vaporizer unit. In FIG. 1,personal vaporizer unit 100 comprises outer main shell 102, mouthpiececover 114, mouthpiece 116, and mouthpiece insulator 112. The mouthpiece116 and mouthpiece cover 114 define the proximal end of personalvaporizer unit 100. The opposite end of personal vaporizer unit 100 willbe referred to as the distal end. A cartridge 150 may be inserted intothe distal end of personal vaporizer unit 100. Cartridge 150 may holdthe substance to be vaporized by personal vaporizer unit 100. Thesubstance after vaporizing may be inhaled by a user holding the personalvaporizer unit 100. The substance may be in the form of a liquid or gel.

FIG. 2 is a side view of a personal vaporizer unit. FIG. 2 illustratespersonal vaporizer unit 100 as viewed from the side. FIG. 2 illustratespersonal vaporizer unit 100 comprising outer main shell 102, mouthpiececover 114, mouthpiece 116, and mouthpiece insulator 112. FIG. 2 alsoillustrates cartridge 150 inserted into the distal end of personalvaporizer unit 100.

FIG. 3 is an end view of the proximal end of a personal vaporizer unit.FIG. 3 shows the proximal end view of personal vaporizer unit 100comprising mouthpiece cover 114. FIG. 4 is an end view of the distal endof a personal vaporizer unit. FIG. 4 shows the distal end view personalvaporizer unit 100 comprising the visible portion of cartridge 150. FIG.4A is an alternative end view of personal vaporizer unit 100 comprisinga visible portion of cartridge 150 that has visible logos, letters, orother symbols. These visible logos, letters, or other symbols may beilluminated or backlit by a light source internal to the personalvaporizer unit 100. The light source may be activated intermittentlyunder the control of a microprocessor or other electronics internal topersonal vaporizer unit 100. The light source may be activated in such amanner as to simulate the glowing ash of a cigar or cigarette.

FIG. 5 is a figure map of FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 is a cross-section ofthe proximal portion of a personal vaporizer unit along the cut lineshown in FIG. 2. In FIG. 6, the proximal portion of personal vaporizerunit 100 comprises mouthpiece cover 114, mouthpiece 116, mouthpieceinsulator 112, outer main shell 102, battery support 106, and battery104. The mouthpiece cover 114 surrounds and is engaged with the distalend of mouthpiece 116. Mouthpiece 116 and outer main shell 102 arepreferably made of an electrically conductive material(s). Mouthpiece116 is separated from outer main shell 102 by mouthpiece insulator 112.Mouthpiece 116 and outer main shell 102 are thus electrically isolatedfrom each other by mouthpiece insulator 112.

In an embodiment, personal vaporizer unit 100 is configured such thatother main shell 102 comprises a first conductive surface configured tocontact a first body part of a person holding personal vaporizer unit100. Mouthpiece 116 comprises a second conductive surface, which isconductively isolated from the first conductive surface. This secondconductive surface is configured to contact a second body part of theperson. When personal vaporizer unit 100 detects a change inconductivity between the first conductive surface and the secondconductive surface, a vaporizer internal to personal vaporizer unit 100is activated to vaporize a substance in cartridge 150 so that the vaporsmay be inhaled by the person holding personal vaporizer unit 100. Thefirst body part and the second body part may be a lip or parts of ahand(s). The two conductive surfaces of outer main shell 102 andmouthpiece 116, respectively, may also be used to charge battery 104contained in the personal vaporizer unit 100. The two conductivesurfaces of outer main shell 102 and mouthpiece 116, respectively, mayalso be used to output (or input) data stored (or to be stored) in amemory (not shown).

Battery support 106 functions to hold battery 104 in a position which isfixed relative to our main shell 102. Battery support 106 is alsoconfigured to allow air and vaporized substance to pass from the distalend of personal vaporizer unit 100 past battery 104 along one or morepassageways. After air and the vapors of the vaporized substance pass bybattery 104, they may pass through openings in mouthpiece 116,mouthpiece cover 114, and mouthpiece insulator 112, to be inhaled by auser.

FIG. 7 is a cross-section of the distal portion of a personal vaporizerunit along the cut line shown in FIG. 2. In FIG. 7, the distal endportion of personal vaporizer unit 100 comprises outer main shell 102,light pipe sleeve 140, and atomizer housing 132, distal wick 134,proximal wick 136, PC board 123, PC board 124, spacer 128, and mainhousing 160. FIG. 7 also illustrates cartridge 150 inserted into thedistal end of personal vaporizer unit 100. As can be seen in FIG. 7,cartridge 150 may hold a substance (e.g., a liquid or gel) in directcontact with distal wick 134. The substance may be drawn through distalwick 134 to be vaporized inside atomizer assembly. The atomizer assemblycomprises atomizer housing 132, distal wick 134, proximal wick 136, anda heating element (not shown).

FIG. 8 is an exploded side view of components of a personal vaporizerunit. FIG. 9 is an exploded cross-section of components of a personalvaporizer unit along the cut line shown in FIG. 2.

In FIGS. 8 and 9, personal vaporizer unit 100 comprises (from left toright) mouthpiece cover 114, mouthpiece 116, mouthpiece insulator 112,battery 104, battery support 106, PC board 123, spacer 128, PC board124, main housing 160, proximal wick 136, distal wick 134, atomizerhousing 132, light pipe sleeve 140, and cartridge 150. Mouthpiece cover114 surrounds and covers the proximal end of mouthpiece 116. The distalend of mouthpiece 116 is inserted into mouthpiece insulator 112. Battery104 is held in place by battery support 106. PC board 123, spacer 128and PC board 124 are disposed within main housing 160. Proximal wick 136and distal wick 134 are disposed within atomizer housing 132.

Atomizer housing 132 (and therefore proximal wick 136, distal wick 134)are disposed inside light pipe sleeve 140 and main shell 102. (Note: forclarity, main shell 102 is not shown in FIGS. 8 and 9.) Light pipesleeve 140 is disposed within main shell 102. Light pipe sleeve 140 ispositioned such that light emitted from a light source mounted on PCboard 124 may be conducted via light pipe sleeve 140 to a location whereit is visible on the outside of personal vaporizer unit 100.

Cartridge 150 is disposed within light pipe sleeve 140. When assembled,a substance contained within cartridge 150 is held in direct contactwith distal wick 134. When cartridge 150 is inserted into personalvaporizer unit 100 atomizer housing 132 or distal wick 134 may puncturea seal or cap that contains the substance to be vaporized withincartridge 150. Once punctured, the substance held within a reservoir ofcartridge 150 may come in direct contact with distal wick 134.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a mouthpiece cover of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 11 is a distal end view of the mouthpiece cover ofFIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a cross-section of the mouthpiece cover along thecut line shown in FIG. 11. As can be seen in FIGS. 10-12, mouthpiececover 114 has an opening 114-1 that allows air and the vaporizedsubstance to be drawn through mouthpiece cover 114. Mouthpiece cover 114is configured for contact with the mouth of a person. In an embodiment,at least part of the mouthpiece cover has an antimicrobial surface. Thisantimicrobial surface of mouthpiece cover 114 may comprise, but is notlimited to: silicone rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, organosilane,silver impregnated polymer, silver impregnated thermoplastic elastomer,and/or polymer. Mouthpiece cover 114 is also configured to be removablefrom personal vaporizer unit 100 by a user without the use of tools.This allows mouthpiece cover 114 to be replaced and/or washed. In anembodiment, mouthpiece cover 114 may be held in place on personalvaporizer unit 100 by annular ridge 114-2 which interfaces with a grooveon mouthpiece 116 of personal vaporizer unit 100 to secure mouthpiececover 114 in place. In another embodiment, mouthpiece cover 114 may beheld in place on personal vaporizer unit 100 by a friction fit.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a mouthpiece of a personal vaporizerunit. FIG. 14 is a side view of the mouthpiece of FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is across-section of the mouthpiece along the cut line shown in FIG. 14. Ascan be seen in FIGS. 13-15, mouthpiece 116 has a passageway 116-1 thatallows air and the vaporized substance to be drawn through mouthpiece116. Mouthpiece 116 may comprise a conductive surface or materialconfigured to contact a first body part of a person holding personalvaporizer unit 100. This first body part may be part of a hand, or atleast one lip of the person holding personal vaporizer unit 100. In anembodiment, mouthpiece 116 has an annular groove 116-2 around an outsidesurface. This groove is configured to receive annular ridge 114-2. Thus,annular groove 116-2 helps secure mouthpiece cover 114 to personalvaporizer unit 100.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a mouthpiece insulator of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 17 is a distal end view of the mouthpiece insulatorof FIG. 16. FIG. 18 is a side view of the mouthpiece insulator of FIG.16. FIG. 19 is a cross-section of the mouthpiece insulator along the cutline shown in FIG. 18. As discussed previously, mouthpiece insulator 112is disposed between main shell 102 and mouthpiece 116. As can be seen inFIGS. 16-18, mouthpiece insulator 112 has a passageway 112-1 that allowsair and the vaporized substance to be drawn through mouthpiece insulator112. Because mouthpiece insulator 112 is disposed between main shell 102and mouthpiece 116, mouthpiece insulator 112 can electrically isolatemain shell 102 and mouthpiece 116. Thus, in an embodiment, mouthpieceinsulator 112 comprises, or is made of, a non-electrically conductivematerial. This electrical isolation between main shell 102 andmouthpiece 116 allow electrical impedance changes between main shell 102and mouthpiece 116 to be detected.

For example, a first conductive surface on mouthpiece 116 may beconfigured to contact a first body part of a person holding personalvaporizer unit 100. A second conductive surface on main shell 102 (whichis conductively isolated from said first conductive surface bymouthpiece insulator 112) may be configured to contact a second bodypart of the person. Personal vaporizer unit 100 may then activate inresponse to detecting a change in conductivity between the firstconductive surface and the second conductive surface. In an embodiment,this change in conductivity may comprise a drop in impedance between thefirst conductive surface and the second conductive surface. In anembodiment, the change in conductivity may comprise a change incapacitance between the first conductive surface and the secondconductive surface. The first body part may be a finger. The second bodypart may be a lip. The second body part may be a second finger. In anembodiment, the first conductive surface and the second conductivesurfaces may be used to pass a charging current to battery 104. Thefirst and second conductive surfaces may also be used to transfer datato or from personal vaporizer unit 100.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a main housing of a personal vaporizerunit. FIG. 21 is a distal end view of the main housing of FIG. 20. FIG.22 is a proximal end view of the main housing of FIG. 20. FIG. 23 is aside view of the main housing of FIG. 20. FIG. 24 is a cross-section ofthe main housing along the cut line shown in FIG. 23. Main housing 160is configured to hold PC-boards 123 and 124, and spacer 128. Mainhousing 160 is configured to fit within main shell 102 via a frictionfit. Main housing 160 has several holes 166 that allow light generatedby a light source(s) on PC-board 124 to pass. Once this light passesthrough holes 166, it may be coupled into light pipe sleeve 140 where itis conducted to a visible location on the outside of personal vaporizerunit 100.

Main housing 160 also has a hole 165 that allows an electrical conductor(not shown) to run from PC-board 123 or PC-board 124 through mainhousing 160. This electrical conductor may be, or connect to, a heatingelement (not shown). This heating element may help vaporize thesubstance to be inhaled by the user of personal vaporizer unit 100. Thisheating element may be controlled by circuitry on PC-board 123 orPC-board 124. This heating element may be activated in response to achange in conductivity between the first conductive surface and thesecond conductive surface, described previously.

The exterior of main housing 160 may also have a flat surface 164 (orother geometry) forming a galley that is configured to allow thevaporized substance and air to pass between the main housing 160 and themain shell 102. Once the vaporized substance and air pass by mainhousing 160, they may travel through passageway 112-1, passageway 116-1,and opening 114-1 to be inhaled by a user of personal vaporizer unit100. The exterior of main housing 160 may also have one or morestandoffs 167 (or other geometries) that are configured to allow air andthe vaporized substance to reach the passageway formed by flat surface164 and main shell 102.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a main housing of a personal vaporizerunit. FIG. 26 is a second perspective view of the main housing of FIG.25. FIG. 27 is a distal end view of the main housing of FIG. 25. FIG. 28is a proximal end view of the main housing of FIG. 25. FIG. 29 is a sideview of the main housing of FIG. 25. FIG. 30 is a cross-section of themain housing along the cut line shown in FIG. 29. Main housing 260 maybe used as an alternative embodiment to main housing 160.

Main housing 260 is configured to hold PC-boards 123 and 124, and spacer128. Main housing 260 is configured to fit within main shell 102 via afriction fit. Main housing 260 has several holes 266 that allow lightgenerated by a light source(s) on PC-board 124 to pass. Once this lightpasses through holes 266, it may be coupled into light pipe sleeve 140where it is conducted to a visible location on the outside of personalvaporizer unit 100.

Main housing 260 also has a hole 265 that allows an electrical conductor(not shown) to run from PC-board 123 or PC-board 124 through mainhousing 260. This electrical conductor may be, or connect to, a heatingelement (not shown). This heating element may help vaporize thesubstance to be inhaled by the user of personal vaporizer unit 100. Thisheating element may be controlled by circuitry on PC-board 123 orPC-board 124. This heating element may be activated in response to achange in conductivity between the first conductive surface and thesecond conductive surface, described previously.

The exterior of main housing 260 may also have flat surfaces 264 (orother geometry) that form a galley that is configured to allow thevaporized substance and air to pass between the main housing 260 and themain shell 102. Once the vaporized substance and air pass by mainhousing 260, they may travel through passageway 112-1, passageway 116-1,and opening 114-1 to be inhaled by a user of personal vaporizer unit100. The exterior of main housing 260 may also have one or morestandoffs 267 (or other geometries) that are configured to allow air andthe vaporized substance to reach the passageway formed by flat surfaces264 and main shell 102.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a printed circuit board assembly of apersonal vaporizer unit. FIG. 32 is a distal end view of the PCBassembly of FIG. 31. FIG. 33 is a perspective exploded view of the PCBassembly of FIG. 31. FIG. 34 is a side exploded view of the PCB assemblyof FIG. 31. As can be seen in FIGS. 31-34, the PCB assembly is comprisedof PC-board 123 and PC-board 124 separated by a spacer 128. PC-board 124may have mounted upon it light emitting diodes (LEDs) 125-127 or otherlight sources. LEDs 125-127 are configured and positioned such that whenthey produce light, that light passes through holes 166 or 266 in mainhousings 160 and 260, respectively. This light may then be conducted bylight pipe sleeve 140 to a location where it will be visible exterior topersonal vaporizer unit 100.

PC-board 123 may have mounted on it a microprocessor, memory, or othercircuitry (not shown) to activate or otherwise control personalvaporizer unit 100. This microprocessor may store data about theoperation of personal vaporizer unit 100 in the memory. For example, themicroprocessor may determine and store the number of cycles personalvaporizer unit 100 has been triggered. The microprocessor may also storea time and/or date associated with one or more of these cycles. Themicroprocessor may cause this data to be output via a connector. Theconnector may be comprised of the first and second conductive surfacesof mouthpiece 116 and/or main shell 102.

In an embodiment, the microprocessor may determine a duration associatedwith various cycles where personal vaporizer unit 100 has beentriggered. These durations (or a number based on these duration, such asan average) may be stored in the memory. The microprocessor may causethese numbers to be output via the connector. The microprocessor maydetermine an empty cartridge condition and stores a number associatedwith a number of times said empty cartridge condition occurs. Themicroprocessor, or other circuitry, may determine an empty cartridgecondition determined based on a resistance between atomizer housing 132or 232 and a wick 134, 234, 136, or 236. The microprocessor may alsostore a time and/or date associated with one or more of these emptycartridge conditions. The number of times an empty cartridge conditionis detected, and or times and/or dates associated with these emptycartridge conditions may be output via the connector.

Battery 104, PC-board 123, PC-board 124, and all electronics internal topersonal vaporizer unit 100 may be sealed in a plastic or plastic andepoxy compartment within the device. This compartment may include mainhousing 160 or 260. All penetrations in this compartment may be sealed.Thus, only wires will protrude from the compartment. The compartment maybe filled with epoxy after the assembly of battery 104, PC-board 123,PC-board 124, and LEDs 125-127. The compartment may be ultrasonicallywelded closed after assembly of battery 104, PC-board 123, PC-board 124,and LEDs 125-127. This sealed compartment is configured such that allvapor within personal vaporizer unit 100 does not come in contact withthe electronics on PC-boards 123 or 124.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a proximal wick element of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 35A is a perspective view of a heating elementdisposed through a proximal wick element of a personal vaporizer unit.FIG. 35B is a perspective view of a heating element of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 36 is a distal end view of the wick element of FIG.35. FIG. 37 is a cross-section of the wick element along the cut lineshown in FIG. 35. Proximal wick 136 is configured to fit within atomizerhousing 132. As can be seen in FIGS. 35-37, proximal wick 136 includesinternal wire passageway 136-1 and external wire passageway 136-2. Thesewire passageways allows a conductor or a heating element 139 to bepositioned through proximal wick 136 (via internal wire passageway136-1). This conductor or heating element 139 may also be positioned inexternal wire passageway 136-2. Thus, as shown in FIG. 35A, a conductoror heating element 139 may be wrapped around a portion of proximal wick136 by running the conductor or heating element 139 through internalwire passageway 136-1, around the distal end of proximal wick 136, andthrough external wire passageway 136-2 to return to approximately itspoint of origin. The heating element 139 may, when personal vaporizer100 is activated, heat proximal wick 136 in order to facilitatevaporization of a substance.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a distal wick element of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 39 is a distal end view of the wick element of FIG.38. FIG. 40 is a cross-section of the wick element along the cut lineshown in FIG. 39. Distal wick 134 is configured to fit within atomizerhousing 132. As can be seen in FIGS. 38-40, distal wick 134 comprisestwo cylinders of different diameters. A chamfered surface transitionsfrom the smaller diameter of the distal end of distal wick 134 to alarger diameter at the proximal end of distal wick 134. The cylinder atthe distal end terminates with a flat surface end 134-1. This flatsurface end 134-1 is the end of distal wick 134 is a surface that isplaced in direct contact with a substance to be vaporized when cartridge150 is inserted into the distal end of personal vaporizer 100. Theproximal end of distal wick 134 is typically in contact with proximalwick 136. However, at least a part of proximal wick 136 and distal wick134 are separated by an air gap. When distal wick 134 and proximal wick136 are used together, this air gap is formed between distal wick 134and proximal wick 136 by stand offs 136-3 as shown in FIG. 37.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a distal wick element of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 42 is a distal end view of the wick element of FIG.41. FIG. 43 is a cross-section of the wick element along the cut lineshown in FIG. 42. Proximal wick 234 may be used as an alternativeembodiment to distal wick 134. Proximal wick 234 is configured to fitwithin atomizer housing 232. As can be seen in FIGS. 41-43, proximalwick 234 comprises two cylinders of different diameters, and a cone orpointed end 234-1. A chamfered surface transitions from the smallerdiameter of the distal end of proximal wick 234 to a larger diameter atthe proximal end of proximal wick 234. The cylinder at the distal endterminates with a pointed end 234-1. This pointed end 234-1 is the endof proximal wick 234 that is in direct contact with a substance to bevaporized. This pointed end 234-1 may also break a seal on cartridge 150to allow the substance to be vaporized to come in direct contact withproximal wick 234. The proximal end of proximal wick 234 is typically incontact with proximal wick 136. However, at least a part of proximalwick 136 and proximal wick 234 are separated by an air gap. When distalwick 134 and proximal wick 236 are used together, this air gap is formedbetween proximal wick 234 and proximal wick 136 by stand offs 136-3 asshown in FIG. 37.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of an atomizer housing of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 45 is a distal end view of the atomizer housing ofFIG. 44. FIG. 46 is a side view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 44. FIG.47 is a top view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 44. FIG. 48 is across-section of the atomizer housing along the cut line shown in FIG.47. Atomizer housing 132 is configured to fit within main shell 102. Ascan be seen in FIGS. 44-48, atomizer housing 132 comprises roughly twocylinders of different diameters. A chamfered surface 132-3 transitionsfrom the smaller diameter of the distal end of atomizer housing 132 to alarger diameter at the proximal end of atomizer housing 132. The largerdiameter at the proximal end of atomizer housing 132 is configured to bepress fit into light pipe sleeve 140. The cylinder at the distal endterminates with a spade shaped tip 132-2. This spade shaped tip 132-2may break a seal on cartridge 150 to allow the substance to be vaporizedto come in direct contact with distal wick 134. Other shaped tips arepossible (e.g., needle or spear shaped).

Chamfered surface 132-3 has one or more holes 132-1. These holes allowair to pass, via suction, through atomizer housing 132 into distal wick134. This suction may be supplied by the user of personal vaporizer 100sucking or inhaling on mouthpiece cover 114 and/or mouthpiece 116. Theair that is sucked into distal wick 134 enters distal wick 134 on ornear the chamfered surface between the two cylinders of distal wick 134.The air that is sucked into distal wick 134 displaces some of thesubstance being vaporized that has been absorbed by distal wick 134causing it to be atomized as it exits distal wick 134 into the air gapformed between distal wick 134 and proximal wick 136. The heatingelement disposed around proximal wick 136 may then vaporize at leastsome of the atomized substance. In an embodiment, one or more holes132-1 may range in diameter between 0.02 and 0.0625 inches.

In an embodiment, placing holes 132-1 at the leading edge of thechamfered surface places a set volume of the substance to be vaporizedin the path of incoming air. This incoming air has nowhere to go butthrough the large diameter (or “head”) end of the distal end wick 134.When the air enters this area in distal end wick 134 it displaces thesubstance to be vaporized that is suspended in distal end wick 134towards an air cavity between distal end wick 134 and proximal end wick136. When the displaced substance to be vaporized reaches the surface ofdistal end wick 134, it is forced out of the wick by the incoming airand the negative pressure of the cavity. This produces an atomized cloudof the substance to be vaporized. In an embodiment, the diameter of thehead of distal end wick 134 may be varied and be smaller than thediameter of the proximal end wick 136. This allows for a tuned volume ofair to bypass proximal end wick 136 and directly enter the cavitybetween distal wick 134 and distal wick 136 without first passingthrough distal wick 136.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of an atomizer housing of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 50 is a distal end view of the atomizer housing ofFIG. 49. FIG. 51 is a side view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 49. FIG.52 is a top view of the atomizer housing of FIG. 49. FIG. 53 is across-section of the atomizer housing along the cut line shown in FIG.52. Atomizer housing 232 is an alternative embodiment, for use withproximal wick 234, to atomizer house 132. Atomizer housing 232 isconfigured to fit within main shell 102 and light pipe sleeve 140. Ascan be seen in FIGS. 49-53, atomizer housing 232 comprises roughly twocylinders of different diameters. A chamfered surface 232-3 transitionsfrom the smaller diameter of the distal end of atomizer housing 232 to alarger diameter at the proximal end of atomizer housing 232. The largerdiameter at the proximal end of atomizer housing 232 is configured to bepress fit into light pipe sleeve 140. The cylinder at the distal endterminates with an open cylinder tip 232-2. This open cylinder tip 232-2allows the pointed end 234-1 of proximal wick 234 to break a seal oncartridge 150 to allow the substance to be vaporized to come in directcontact with proximal wick 234.

Chamfered surface 232-3 has one or more holes 232-1. These holes allowair to pass, via suction, through atomizer housing 232 into proximalwick 234. The air that is sucked into proximal wick 234 enters proximalwick 234 on or near the chamfered surface between the two cylinders ofproximal wick 234. The air that is sucked into proximal wick 234displaces some of the substance being vaporized that has been absorbedby proximal wick 234 causing it to be atomized as it exits proximal wick234 into the air gap formed between proximal wick 234 and proximal wick136. The heating element disposed around proximal wick 136 may thenvaporize at least some of the atomized substance being vaporized. In anembodiment, one or more holes 232-1 may range in diameter between 0.02and 0.0625 inches.

In an embodiment, placing holes 232-1 at the leading edge of thechamfered surface places a set volume of the substance to be vaporizedin the path of incoming air. This incoming air has nowhere to go butthrough the head of the distal end wick 234. When the air enters thisarea in distal end wick 234 it displaces the substance to be vaporizedthat is suspended in distal end wick 234 towards an air cavity betweendistal end wick 234 and proximal end wick 236. When the displacedsubstance to be vaporized reaches the surface of distal end wick 232, itis forced out of the wick by the incoming air and the negative pressureof the cavity. This produces an atomized cloud of the substance to bevaporized. In an embodiment, the diameter of the head of distal end wick234 may be varied and be smaller than the diameter of the proximal endwick 236. This allows for a tuned volume of air to bypass distal wick236 and directly enter the cavity between proximal wick 234 and distalwick 236 without first passing through distal wick 236.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of an atomizer housing and wicks of apersonal vaporizer unit. FIG. 55 is an exploded view of the atomizerhousing, wire guides, and wicks of FIG. 54. FIG. 56 is a side view ofthe atomizer housing and wicks of FIG. 54. FIG. 57 is a distal end viewof the atomizer housing and wicks of FIG. 54. FIG. 58 is a cross-sectionof the atomizer housing and wicks along the cut line shown in FIG. 57.The atomizer housing and wicks shown in FIGS. 54-58 is an alternativeembodiment for use with proximal wick 236. The embodiment shown in FIGS.54-58 use atomizer housing 232, proximal wick 234, proximal wick 236,wire guide 237, and wire guide 238. Proximal wick 236 is configured tofit within atomizer housing 232. As can be seen in FIGS. 54-58, proximalwick 236 includes internal wire passageway 236-1. This wire passageway236-1 allows a conductor or a heating element (not shown) to bepositioned through proximal wick 236 (via internal wire passageway236-1). The conductor or heating element may be positioned around wireguide 237 and wire guide 238. Thus, a conductor or heating element mayrun the through wire passageway 236-1, around wire guides 237 and 238,and then back through wire passageway 236-1 to return to approximatelyits point of origin. The heating element may, when personal vaporizerunit 100 is activated, heat proximal wick 236 in order to facilitatevaporization of a substance.

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of the proximal end wick assembly of FIGS.54-58. FIG. 59A is a perspective view showing a heating element disposedthrough the proximal end wick and around the wire guides of FIGS. 54-58.FIG. 59B is a perspective view of the heating element of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 60 is a distal end view of the wick element andwire guides of FIGS. 54-58. FIG. 61 is a cross-section of the wickelement and wire guides along the cut line shown in FIG. 60. As can beseen in FIG. 59A, a conductor or heating element 239 may run throughwire passageway 236-1, around wire guides 237 and 238, and then backthrough wire passageway 236-1 to return to approximately its point oforigin.

In an embodiment, distal wicks 134, 234, and proximal wicks 136, 236,may be made of, or comprise, for example a porous ceramic. Distal wicks134, 234, and proximal wicks 136, 236, may be made of, or comprisealuminum oxide, silicon carbide, magnesia partial stabilized zirconia,yttria tetragonal zirconia polycrystal, porous metal (e.g., steel,aluminum, platinum, titanium, and the like), ceramic coated porousmetal, woven metal, spun metal, metal wool (e.g., steel wool), porouspolymer, porous coated polymer, porous silica (i.e., glass), and/orporous Pyrex. Distal wicks 134, 234, and proximal wicks 136, 236, may bemade of or comprise other materials that can absorb a substance to bevaporized.

The conductor or heating element that is disposed through proximal wick136 or 236 may be made of, or comprise, for example: nickel chromium,iron chromium aluminum, stainless steel, gold, platinum, tungstenmolybdenum, or a piezoelectric material. The conductor or heatingelement that is disposed through proximal wick 136 can be made of, orcomprise, other materials that become heated when an electrical currentis passed through them.

FIG. 62 is a perspective view of a light pipe sleeve of a personalvaporizer unit. FIG. 63 is an end view of the light pipe sleeve of FIG.62. FIG. 64 is a cross-section of the light pipe sleeve along the cutline shown in FIG. 63. Light pipe sleeve 140 is configured to bedisposed within main shell 102. Light pipe sleeve 140 is also configuredto hold cartridge 150 and atomizer housing 132 or 232. As discussedpreviously, light pipe sleeve 140 is configured to conduct lightentering the proximal end of light pipe sleeve 140 (e.g., from LEDs125-127) to the distal end of light pipe sleeve 140. Typically, thelight exiting the distal end of light pipe sleeve 140 will be visiblefrom the exterior of personal vaporizer 100. The light exiting thedistal end of light pipe sleeve 140 may be diffused by cartridge 150.The light exiting the distal end of light pipe sleeve 140 may illuminatecharacters and/or symbols drawn, printed, written, or embossed, etc., inan end of cartridge 150. In an embodiment, light exiting light pipesleeve 140 may illuminate a logo, characters and/or symbols cut throughouter main shell 102. In an embodiment, light pipe sleeve 140 is madeof, or comprises, a translucent acrylic plastic.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a cartridge of a personal vaporizerunit. FIG. 66 is a proximal end view of the cartridge of FIG. 65. FIG.67 is a side view of the cartridge of FIG. 65. FIG. 68 is a top view ofthe cartridge of FIG. 65. FIG. 69 is a cross-section of the cartridgealong the cut line shown in FIG. 66. As shown in FIGS. 65-69, cartridge150 comprises a hollow cylinder section with at least one exterior flatsurface 158. The flat surface 158 forms, when cartridge 150 is insertedinto the distal end of personal vaporizer unit 100, an open spacebetween the exterior surface of the cartridge and an interior surface oflight pipe sleeve 140. This space defines a passage for air to be drawnfrom outside personal vaporizer unit 100, through personal vaporizerunit 100 to be inhaled by the user along with the vaporized substance.This space also helps define the volume of air drawn into personalvaporizer unit 100. By defining the volume of air typically drawn intothe unit, different mixtures of vaporized substance to air may beproduced.

The hollow portion of cartridge 150 is configured as a reservoir to holdthe substance to be vaporized by personal vaporizer unit 100. The hollowportion of cartridge 150 holds the substance to be vaporized in directcontact with distal wick 134 or 234. This allows distal wick 134 or 234to become saturated with the substance to be vaporized. The area ofdistal wick 134 or 234 that is in direct contact with the substance tobe vaporized may be varied in order to deliver different doses of thesubstance to be vaporized. For example, cartridges 150 with differingdiameter hollow portions may be used to deliver different doses of thesubstance to be vaporized to the user.

Cartridge 150 may be configured to confine the substance to be vaporizedby a cap or seal (not shown) on the proximal end. This cap or seal maybe punctured by the end of atomizer housing 132, or the pointed end234-1 of proximal wick 234.

When inserted into personal vaporizer unit 100, cartridge standoffs 157define an air passage between the end of light pipe sleeve 140 and mainshell 102. This air passage allows air to reach the air passage definedby flat surface 158.

The hollow portion of cartridge 150 also includes one or more channels154. The end of these channels are exposed to air received via the airpassage(s) defined by flat surface 158. These channels allow air toenter the hollow portion of cartridge 150 as the substance contained incartridge 150 is drawn into a distal wick 134 or 234. Allowing air toenter the hollow portion of cartridge 150 as the substance contained incartridge 150 is removed prevents a vacuum from forming inside cartridge150. This vacuum could prevent the substance contained in cartridge 150from being absorbed into distal wick 134 or 234.

In an embodiment, cartridge 150 may be at least partly translucent. Thuscartridge 150 may act as a light diffuser so that light emitted by oneor more of LEDs 125-127 is visible external to personal vaporizer unit100.

FIG. 70 is a side view of a battery of a personal vaporizer unit. FIG.71 is an end view of the battery of FIG. 70. FIG. 72 is a perspectiveview of a battery support of a personal vaporizer unit. As can be seenin FIG. 72, battery support 106 does not form a complete cylinder thatcompletely surrounds battery 104. This missing portion of a cylinderforms a passageway that allows air and the vaporized substance to passby the battery from the atomizer assembly to the mouthpiece 116 so thatit may be inhaled by the user.

FIG. 73 is a top perspective view of a personal vaporizer unit case.FIG. 74 is a bottom perspective view of a personal vaporizer unit case.Personal vaporizer case 500 is configured to hold one or more personalvaporizer units 100. Personal vaporizer case 500 includes a connector510 to interface to a computer. This connector allows case 500 totransfer data from personal vaporizer unit 100 to a computer viaconnecter 510. Case 500 may also transfer data from personal vaporizerunit 100 via a wireless interface. This wireless interface may comprisean infrared (IR) transmitter, a Bluetooth interface, an 802.11 specifiedinterface, and/or communicate with a cellular telephone network. Datafrom a personal vaporizer unit 100 may be associated with anidentification number stored by personal vaporizer unit 100. Data frompersonal vaporizer unit 100 may be transmitted via the wirelessinterface in association with the identification number.

Personal vaporizer case 500 includes a battery that may hold charge thatis used to recharge a personal vaporizer unit 100. Recharging ofpersonal vaporizer unit 100 may be managed by a charge controller thatis part of case 500.

When case 500 is holding a personal vaporizer unit 100, at least aportion of the personal vaporizer unit 100 is visible from the outsideof case 500 to allow a light emitted by personal vaporizer unit 100 toprovide a visual indication of a state of personal vaporizer unit 500.This visual indication is visible outside of case 500.

Personal vaporizer unit 100 is activated by a change in impedancebetween two conductive surfaces. In an embodiment, these two conductivesurfaces are part of main shell 102 and mouthpiece 116. These twoconductive surfaces may also be used by case 500 to charge battery 104.These two conductive surfaces may also be used by case 500 to read dataout of personal vaporizer unit 100.

In an embodiment, when a user puts personal vaporizer unit 100 inhis/her mouth and provides “suction,” air is drawn into personalvaporizer unit 100 though a gap between the end of main shell 102 andcartridge 150. In an embodiment, this gap is established by standoffs157. Air travels down galley(s) formed by flat surface(s) 158 and theinner surface of light pipe sleeve 140. The air then reaches a “ring”shaped galley between atomizer housing 132, cartridge 150, and lightpipe sleeve 140. Air travels to distal wick 134 via one or more holes132-1, in chamfered surface(s) 132-3. Air travels to distal wick 234 viaone or more holes 232-1, in chamfered surface(s) 232-3. Air is alsoallowed to enter cartridge 150 via one or more channels 154. This airentering cartridge 150 via channels 154 “back fills” for the substancebeing vaporized which enters distal wick 134. The substance beingvaporized is held in direct contact with distal wick 134 or 234 bycartridge 150. The substance being vaporized is absorbed by and maysaturate distal wick 134 or 234 and proximal wick 136 or 236.

The incoming air drawn through holes 132-1 displaces from saturateddistal wick 134 the substance being vaporized. The displaced substancebeing vaporized is pulled from wick elements 134 into a cavity betweendistal wick 134 and 136. This cavity may also contain a heating elementthat has been heated to between 150-200° C. The displaced substancebeing vaporized is pulled from wick elements 134 in small (e.g.,atomized) droplets. These atomized droplets are vaporized by the heatingelement.

In an embodiment, when a user puts personal vaporizer unit 100 inhis/her mouth and provides “suction,” air is drawn into personalvaporizer unit 100 though a gap between the end of main shell 102 andcartridge 150. In an embodiment, this gap is established by standoffs157. Air travels down galley(s) formed by flat surface(s) 158 and theinner surface of light pipe sleeve 140. The air then reaches a “ring”shaped galley between atomizer housing 232, cartridge 150, and lightpipe sleeve 140. Air travels to proximal wick 234 via one or more holes232-1, in chamfered surface(s) 232-1. Air is also allowed to entercartridge 150 via one or more channels 154. This air entering cartridge150 via channels 154 “back fills” for the substance being vaporizedwhich enters proximal wick 234. The substance being vaporized is held indirect contact with proximal wick 234 by cartridge 150. The substancebeing vaporized is absorbed by and may saturate distal wick 243 andproximal wick 236.

The incoming air drawn through holes 232-1 displaces from saturatedproximal wick 234 the substance being vaporized. The displaced substancebeing vaporized is pulled from wick elements 234 into a cavity betweenwick distal wick 234 and proximal wick 236. This cavity may also containa heating element that has been heated to between 150-200° C. Thedisplaced substance being vaporized is pulled from distal wick 234 insmall (e.g., atomized) droplets. These atomized droplets are vaporizedby the heating element.

In both of the previous two embodiments, the vaporized substance and airare drawn down a galley adjacent to battery 104, through mouthpieceinsulator 112, mouthpiece 116, and mouthpiece cover 114. After exitingpersonal vaporizer unit 100, the vapors may be inhaled by a user.

The systems, controller, and functions described above may beimplemented with or executed by one or more computer systems. Themethods described above may be stored on a computer readable medium.Personal vaporizer unit 100 and case 500 may be, comprise, or includecomputers systems. FIG. 75 illustrates a block diagram of a computersystem. Computer system 600 includes communication interface 620,processing system 630, storage system 640, and user interface 660.Processing system 630 is operatively coupled to storage system 640.Storage system 640 stores software 650 and data 670. Processing system630 is operatively coupled to communication interface 620 and userinterface 660. Computer system 600 may comprise a programmedgeneral-purpose computer. Computer system 600 may include amicroprocessor. Computer system 600 may comprise programmable or specialpurpose circuitry. Computer system 600 may be distributed among multipledevices, processors, storage, and/or interfaces that together compriseelements 620-670.

Communication interface 620 may comprise a network interface, modem,port, bus, link, transceiver, or other communication device.Communication interface 620 may be distributed among multiplecommunication devices. Processing system 630 may comprise amicroprocessor, microcontroller, logic circuit, or other processingdevice. Processing system 630 may be distributed among multipleprocessing devices. User interface 660 may comprise a keyboard, mouse,voice recognition interface, microphone and speakers, graphical display,touch screen, or other type of user interface device. User interface 660may be distributed among multiple interface devices. Storage system 640may comprise a disk, tape, integrated circuit, RAM, ROM, networkstorage, server, or other memory function. Storage system 640 may be acomputer readable medium. Storage system 640 may be distributed amongmultiple memory devices.

Processing system 630 retrieves and executes software 650 from storagesystem 640. Processing system may retrieve and store data 670.Processing system may also retrieve and store data via communicationinterface 620. Processing system 650 may create or modify software 650or data 670 to achieve a tangible result. Processing system may controlcommunication interface 620 or user interface 670 to achieve a tangibleresult. Processing system may retrieve and execute remotely storedsoftware via communication interface 620.

Software 650 and remotely stored software may comprise an operatingsystem, utilities, drivers, networking software, and other softwaretypically executed by a computer system. Software 650 may comprise anapplication program, applet, firmware, or other form of machine-readableprocessing instructions typically executed by a computer system. Whenexecuted by processing system 630, software 650 or remotely storedsoftware may direct computer system 600 to operate as described herein.

FIGS. 76A-76S show various views of another vaporizer 76000 embodiment.In particular, FIG. 76A shows a perspective view of vaporizer 76000,while FIG. 76B shows a side view of vaporizer 76000. Vaporizer 76000 mayhave a housing 76002 comprising an oral aspiration tube 76004 fortransporting vapor to a user's mouth. As the user's mouth aspirates atthe oral aspiration tube 76004, taking in vapor, air may be taken intothe vaporizer 76000 through air intake ports 76006.

A battery carrier sleeve 76008 may be slidably coupled with the housing76002 for guiding alternative movement of the battery carrier sleeve76008 between an extended position and a retracted position. Thevaporizer 76000 may be electrically activated to produce vapor when thebattery carrier sleeve is moved into the extended position. Vaporproduction may be suspended, and the vaporizer 76000 may be temporarilydeactivated, when the battery carrier sleeve is moved into the retractedposition.

The battery carrier sleeve 76008 may be disposed within the housing76002. The housing 76002 may have an aperture 76010 extending into thehousing 76002 and arranged adjacent to a surface of the battery carriersleeve 76008. The surface of the battery carrier sleeve 76008 may bearranged so as to be manually accessible through the aperture 76010 by auser for controlling the movement of battery carrier sleeve 76008between the retracted position and the extended position.

FIGS. 76C shows an exploded view of vaporizer 76000. Vaporizer 76000 maycomprise oral aspiration tube 76004, vaporizer assembly 76020, contactpellet 76034, bushing 76036, resilient member 76038 and battery contactpost 76040. Battery carrier sleeve 76008 may be adapted for receiving abattery 76042. The battery carrier sleeve 76008 may comprise an aircirculation vent 76043, which may extend through the battery carriersleeve 76008 for cooling the battery 76042. Material of the batterycarrier sleeve 76008 may be selected so that the battery carrier sleeve76008 may have a high thermal conductivity, substantially greater thanapproximately ten Watts per Kelvin-Meter, for sinking heat from thebattery during operation of the vaporizer. Further, material of thebattery carrier sleeve 76008 may be selected so that the battery carriersleeve 76008 may have a very high thermal conductivity, substantiallygreater than approximately one-hundred Watts per Kelvin-Meter, forsinking of heat from the battery during operation of the vaporizer. Forexample, the battery carrier sleeve 76008 may comprise aluminum.

Battery 76042 may have at least one battery terminal. Battery 76042 mayhave a positive polarity battery terminal 76044 at one extremity of thebattery 76042. Battery 76042 may have a negative polarity batteryterminal 76046 at opposing extremity of the battery 76042. Batterycarrier sleeve 76008 may be slidably coupled with housing sleeve 76048.The surface of the battery carrier sleeve 76008 may be arranged so as tobe manually accessible through aperture 76010 by a user for controllingthe movement of battery carrier sleeve 76008 between the retractedposition and the extended position.

It should be understood that the invention is not limited to the batterypolarity arrangement just discussed and shown in exploded view in FIG.76C, since battery polarity may be reversed with respect to that whichis explicitly shown in FIG. 76C, without substantial adverse affect onoperation of vaporizer 76000. More specifically, the battery carriersleeve 76008 may receive battery 76042 having positive and negativepolarity battery terminals 76044, 76046, and battery contact post 76042may be arranged for electrically coupling with either battery terminal76044, 76046, independent of any polarity of either battery terminal76044, 76046.

FIG. 76D shows a detailed side view of vaporizer assembly 76020 and oralaspiration tube 76004. FIG. 76E shows a detailed perspective view ofvaporizer assembly 76020. FIG. 76F shows a perspective exploded view ofvaporizer assembly 76020 together with oral aspiration tube 76004.

As shown in the exploded view of FIG. 76F, the vaporizer assembly 76020may comprise a cap 76021, an outer reservoir cover 76022, a resiliento-ring 76023, absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024, a supportive innerreservoir sleeve 76025, an atomizer assembly 76050 and a supportiveatomizer fluid interface 76027. Cap 76024 may be removable, and inparticular absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may removable by a user ofthe vaporizer, so as to provide for cleaning or replacement of theabsorptive ceramic reservoir 76024

The oral aspiration tube discussed previously herein may be fluidlycoupled with the atomizer assembly 76050 for transporting vapor from theatomizer assembly to the user's mouth. When electrically activated,atomizer assembly 76050 can change liquid into vapor. Absorptive ceramicreservoir 76024 may provide for volume storage of the liquid. Forexample, the liquid may comprises a miscible liquid, and the absorptiveceramic reservoir 76024 may be adapted for volume storage of themiscible liquid.

Absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may be fluidly coupled with theatomizer assembly 76050 for providing the liquid to the atomizerassembly 76050, in response to aspiration by the user. In particular,air intake ports 76006 may extend through outer reservoir cover 76022,and may be fluidly coupled with the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024for bubbling air into the absorptive ceramic reservoir in response toaspiration by the user.

A first set of liquid transport apertures 76026A may extend throughsupportive inner reservoir sleeve 76025, for transporting liquidaspirated from the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 through thesupportive inner reservoir sleeve 76025. Similarly, a second set ofliquid transport apertures 76026B may extend through supportive atomizerfluid interface 76027, for transporting liquid aspirated from theabsorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 through the supportive atomizer fluidinterface 76027. Similarly, a third set of liquid transport apertures76026C may extend into atomizer assembly 76050, for transporting liquidaspirated from the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 into atomizerassembly 76050.

In other words, the first and second sets of liquid transport apertures76026A, 76026B may form at least one liquid aspiration channel 76026A,76026B, which may be fluidly coupled between the atomizer assembly 76050and the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 for aspirating the liquidfrom the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 in response to aspiration bythe user. As shown in exploded view in FIG. 76F, air intake ports 76006and the liquid aspiration channel 76026A, 76026B may each be arranged atrespective opposing surfaces of the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024,so as to promote the aspiration of liquid from the absorptive ceramicreservoir 76024.

As shown in FIG. 76F, the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may have asubstantially annular cross section. The absorptive ceramic reservoir76024 may be substantially cylindrically shaped. Atomizer assembly 76050may be coaxially arranged with such substantially cylindrical shape ofthe absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024. As shown in FIG. 76F, resiliento-ring 76023 may be arranged adjacent to an extremity of thesubstantially cylindrical shape of the absorptive ceramic reservoir76024, for providing at least some shock protection to the absorptiveceramic reservoir 76024.

As shown in FIG. 76F the substantially cylindrical shape of absorptiveceramic reservoir 76024 may comprise a cylinder wall having a thicknessdimension “T”. To provide for volume storage of the liquid, and toprovide for some strength of the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024, thethickness dimension “T” may be greater than approximately a couple ofmillimeters. To provide for some user convenience and some compactthinness of the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024, the thicknessdimension “T” may be less than approximately tens of millimeters.Accordingly, the thickness dimension “T” may be within a range fromapproximately a couple of millimeters to approximately tens ofmillimeters.

To provide for some user convenience, and to avoid an excessive need torefill the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 continually, theabsorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may have liquid absorption volume ofgreater than approximately half a milliliter. In particularly, theabsorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may have a liquid absorption volumesufficient for more than approximately seventy-five full aspirationcycles through the user's mouth and substantially filling a user'slungs. To provide for some user convenience and some compactness of theabsorptive ceramic reservoir 76024, the absorptive ceramic reservoir76024 may have liquid absorption volume less then approximately tenmilliliters. Accordingly, the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 mayhave a liquid absorption volume within a range from approximately half amilliliter to approximately ten milliliters.

The absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may comprise a macroporousceramic. The macroporous ceramic may be substantially hydrophilic.Further, the macroporous ceramic may comprise a substantially open porestructured ceramic. Moreover, the macroporous ceramic may comprise asubstantially interconnected macroporous ceramic.

The macroporous ceramic may comprise an oxide ceramic. Moreparticularly, the macroporous ceramic may comprise Aluminum Oxide. Sincethe atomizer assembly 76050 may generate heat, to provide for some usersafety the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may be substantially anon-flammable. To provide for some safety of the user inhaling vapors ofthe vaporizer, the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may besubstantially chemically inert.

Parameters of the macroporous ceramic may be chosen so as to provide forsome ease of use of the user aspirating the liquid from the absorptiveceramic reservoir 76024. The macroporous ceramic may have an air entryvalue within a range from approximately one fifth of a pound per squareinch to approximately eight pounds per square inch. The macroporousceramic may have a porosity within a range from approximately fortypercent to approximately ninety percent. The macroporous ceramic mayhave an average pore size within a range from approximately twenty fivemicrons to approximately one hundred and fifty microns.

In addition to providing some ease of aspiration, parameters such asporosity greater than approximately forty percent and/or average poresize greater than approximately twenty five microns may provide somewicking efficiency, in filling the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024with liquid. Parameters such as porosity less than approximately ninetypercent and/or average pore size less than approximately one hundred andfifty microns may provide for some strength of the absorptive ceramicreservoir 76024. To provide some balance between ease of aspiration,wicking efficiency and strength, the macroporous ceramic may have anaverage pore size of approximately seventy microns.

Use of the previously described macroporous ceramic need not be strictlylimited to the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024. As will be discussedsubsequently herein other vaporizer components may be comprised of themacroporous ceramic as just described.

FIG. 76G shows a detailed perspective view of atomizer assembly 76050together with oral aspiration tube 76004. FIG. 76H shows a perspectiveexploded view of atomizer assembly 76050 together with oral aspirationtube 76004. FIG. 76I shows a detailed perspective view of atomizerassembly 76050. FIGS. 76G-76I show the third set of liquid transportapertures 76026C, which may extend into atomizer assembly 76050, fortransporting liquid aspirated from the absorptive ceramic reservoir intoatomizer assembly 76050, as mentioned previously herein.

The perspective exploded view of FIG. 76H shows splatter shield 76052which may be arranged with atomizer assembly 76050 and oral aspirationtube 76004. Splatter shield 76052 may be removable by a user of thevaporizer 76000. Splatter shield 76052 may be disposed within the oralaspiration tube 76004. Splatter shield 76052 may be fluidly coupled withlumen of the oral aspiration tube 76004 for substantially shielding theuser's mouth from liquid splatter when the user's mouth aspirates theoral aspiration tube 76004.

Splatter shield 76052 may comprise an absorptive ceramic splattershield. Absorptive ceramic splatter shield 76052 may comprise themacroporous ceramic described and discussed previously herein. Asalready discussed, the macroporous ceramic may be substantiallyhydrophilic. Further, the macroporous ceramic may comprise asubstantially open pore structured ceramic. Moreover, the macroporousceramic may comprise a substantially interconnected macroporous ceramic.

As already discussed, the macroporous ceramic may comprise an oxideceramic. More particularly, the macroporous ceramic may compriseAluminum Oxide. Since the atomizer assembly 76050 may generate heat, toprovide for some user safety the splatter shield 76052 may besubstantially a non-flammable. To provide for some safety of the userinhaling vapors of the vaporizer, the splatter shield 76052 may besubstantially chemically inert.

Parameters of the macroporous ceramic may be chosen so as to provide forsome ease of use of air or vapor entry into the splatter shield 76052.The macroporous ceramic may have an air entry value within a range fromapproximately one fifth of a pound per square inch to approximatelyeight pounds per square inch. The macroporous ceramic may have aporosity within a range from approximately forty percent toapproximately ninety percent. The macroporous ceramic may have anaverage pore size within a range from approximately twenty five micronsto approximately one hundred and fifty microns.

In addition to providing some ease of air or vapor entry, parameterssuch as porosity greater than approximately forty percent and/or averagepore size greater than approximately twenty five microns may providesome wicking efficiency, in filling as discussed in greater detailsubsequently herein. Parameters such as porosity less than approximatelyninety percent and/or average pore size less than approximately onehundred and fifty microns may provide for some strength of the splattershield 76052. To provide some balance between ease of aspiration,wicking efficiency and strength, the macroporous ceramic may have anaverage pore size of approximately seventy microns.

Similarly, wick element 76067 of atomizer assembly 76050 shown in FIGS.76H and 76I may likewise comprise the macroporous ceramic described anddiscussed previously herein. As just discussed, the macroporous ceramicmay be substantially hydrophilic. Further, the macroporous ceramic maycomprise a substantially open pore structured ceramic. Moreover, themacroporous ceramic may comprise a substantially interconnectedmacroporous ceramic.

As already discussed, the macroporous ceramic may comprise an oxideceramic. More particularly, the macroporous ceramic may compriseAluminum Oxide. Since the atomizer assembly 76050 may generate heat, toprovide for some user safety the wick element 76067 may be substantiallya non-flammable. To provide for some safety of the user inhaling vaporsof the vaporizer, the wick element 76067 may be substantially chemicallyinert.

Parameters of the macroporous ceramic may be chosen so as to provide forsome ease of use of the user aspirating the liquid from the wick element76057. The macroporous ceramic may have an air entry value within arange from approximately one fifth of a pound per square inch toapproximately eight pounds per square inch. The macroporous ceramic mayhave a porosity within a range from approximately forty percent toapproximately ninety percent. The macroporous ceramic may have anaverage pore size within a range from approximately twenty five micronsto approximately one hundred and fifty microns.

In addition to providing some ease of the user aspirating the liquidfrom the wick element 76057, parameters such as porosity greater thanapproximately forty percent and/or average pore size greater thanapproximately twenty five microns may provide some wicking efficiency,in filling as discussed in greater detail subsequently herein.Parameters such as porosity less than approximately ninety percentand/or average pore size less than approximately one hundred and fiftymicrons may provide for some strength of the wick element 76057. Toprovide some balance between ease of aspiration, wicking efficiency andstrength, the macroporous ceramic may have an average pore size ofapproximately seventy microns.

As shown in shown in FIGS. 76H and 76I, wick element 76057 may have alumen. Wick element 76057 may be substantially cylindrical about thelumen. Heating element 76054 may be proximately arranged with the lumen.An air gap may be defined between at least a first portion of the wickelement 76057 and a second portion of heating element 76057. Heatingelement 76054 may be arranged adjacent to the wick element 76057 forreceiving liquid aspirated from the ceramic wick element 76057 inresponse to aspiration by the user's mouth. Heating element 76054 may besubstantially “L” shaped, as shown in FIGS. 76H and 76I.

More generally, FIGS. 76H and 76I show absorptive member 76057, whichmay be rigid, or may be substantially rigid. Absorptive member 76057 maydirectly contact the liquid to be changed into vapor. Absorptive member76057 may have a lumen. Absorptive member 76057 may be substantiallycylindrical about the lumen. Heating element 76054 may be proximatelyarranged with the lumen. An air gap may be defined between at least afirst portion of the absorptive member 76057 and a second portion ofheating element 76057. Heating element 76054 may be arranged adjacent toabsorptive member 76057 for receiving liquid aspirated from theabsorptive member 76057 in response to aspiration by the user's mouth.

As shown in shown in FIGS. 76H and 76I, an air gap may be definedbetween at least a first portion of the absorptive member 76057, whichwas just discussed, and a second portion of a substantiallynon-absorptive member 76058. Substantially non-absorptive member 76058may be substantially hydrophobic. Substantially non-absorptive member76058 may be substantially non-porous. Substantially non-absorptivemember 76058 may comprise glass. Substantially non-absorptive member76058 may comprise a ceramic. Substantially non-absorptive member 76058may comprise stabilized zirconia.

Substantially non-absorptive member 76058 may be thermally coupled withthe heating element 76054 for changing liquid into vapor. Substantiallynon-absorptive member 76058 may have a surface area that is greater thana surface area of the heating element 76054 for changing the liquid intothe vapor. Heating element 76054 may comprise wire 76054 coiled aboutthe substantially non-absorptive member 76058. Substantiallynon-absorptive member 76058 may have a thermal conductivity that issubstantially less than a thermal conductivity of the heating element76057. Substantially non-absorptive member 76058 may be proximallyarranged with the heating element 76054 for substantially reflectingheat from the heating element 76057. Substantially non-absorptive member76058 may maintain a temperature less than approximately two hundred andeighty degrees Celsius during activation of the heating element 76057.

More generally, FIGS. 76H and 76I show heating element support member76058, which may be mechanically coupled with the heating element 76054for supporting the heating element 76057. Heating element support member76058 may have a stiffness that is substantially greater than astiffness of the heating element 76057. Heating element support member76058 may be rigid or may be substantially rigid. Heating element 76054and the heating element support member 76058 may be arrangedsubstantially coaxially. Heating element 76054 may comprise wire 76054coiled about the heating element support member 76058. An air gap may bedefined between at least a first portion of the wick element 76057 and asecond portion of the heating element support member 76058.

Heating element support member 76058 may be substantially hydrophobic.Heating element support member 76058 may comprise glass. Heating elementsupport member 76058 may comprise a ceramic. Heating element supportmember 76058 may comprise stabilized zirconia.

FIG. 76J shows an exploded view of atomizer assembly 76050. In additionto showing wick element 76057, heating element 76054 and heating elementsupport member 76058, the atomizer assembly 76050 of FIG. 76J mayfurther comprise first pressure member 76055, inner contact member76051, insulator 76056 and outer contact member 76053. As shown inexploded view in FIG. 76J, and as more particularly shown in detailedviews in FIGS. 76K and 76L, first pressure member 76055 may sandwich afirst extremity of the heating element 76054 over inner contact member76051 to effect first solderless pressure contacts.

More particularly, first pressure member 76055 may comprise a pressurecap 76055 which may sandwich the first extremity of the heating element76054 over the inner contact member 76051 to effect first solderlesspressure contacts Inner contact member 76051 and first pressure member76055 may comprise metal members Inner contact member 76051 may comprisean inner contact post 76051. FIG. 76K shows wick element 76057, heatingelement 76054, heating element support member 76058, first pressuremember 76055 and inner contact member 76051. FIG. 76L is similar to FIG.76K, except that wick element 76057 is not shown in FIG. 76L, forpurposes of more particularly illustrating first pressure member 76055(which may sandwich a first extremity of the heating element 76054 overinner contact member 76051 to effect first solderless pressurecontacts.)

FIG. 76MA is a partial cutaway view showing oral aspiration tube 76004,splatter shield 76052, wick element 76057, heating element 76054,heating element support member 76058, first pressure member 76055, innercontact member 76051, insulator 76056 and outer contact member 76053. Asshown in FIG. 76MA, and as more particularly shown in detailed view inFIG. 76MB, second pressure member 76004 may comprise at least a portionof oral aspiration tube 76004. Second pressure member 76004 may sandwichthe second extremity of the heating element 76054 over outer contactmember 76053 to effect second solderless pressure contacts. Outercontact member 76053 may comprise an outer contact sleeve 76053.Accordingly, oral aspiration tube 76004 may have an extremity, which maybe arranged for sandwiching the second extremity of the heating element76054 over the outer contact sleeve 76053 to effect second solderlesspressure contacts. Outer contact member 76053 and the second pressuremember 76004 may comprise metal members.

As shown in FIG. 76MA heating element 76054 may be electrically coupledbetween the inner contact member 76051 and the outer contact member76053 for energizing the heating element 76054 when the heating element76054 is activated. Heating element 76054 may be electrically coupledbetween the inner contact member 76051 and the outer contact member76053 for conducting a flow of battery power when the heating element76054 is activated.

Electrical insulation material 78056 may be interposed between the innercontact member 76051 and the outer contact member 76053. Substantiallyannular insulation 78056 may be interposed between the inner contactmember 76051 and the outer contact member 76053. The electricalinsulation material 78056 may be selected for substantially avoidingoutgassing at approximately three hundred degrees Celsius. Theelectrical insulation material 78056 may be selected for substantiallymaintaining dimensional stability at approximately three hundred degreesCelsius. The electrical insulation material may comprisepolytetrafluoroethylene.

FIG. 76N shows a detailed side view of atomizer assembly 76050 togetherwith splatter shield 76052. FIG. 76O shows splatter shield 76052together with a detailed cutaway view of atomizer assembly 76050. Theatomizer assembly may comprise a first electrical contact 76051including at least inner contact member 76051 (which may comprise innercontact post 76051), as shown in FIG. 76N. Atomizer assembly 76050 mayfurther comprise a second electrical contact 76053 including at leastouter contact member 76053 (which may comprise outer contact sleeve76053.) Atomizer assembly 76050 may further comprise heating element76054 electrically coupled between the inner contact member and theouter contact member. Heating element 76054 may be made of, or comprise,for example: nickel chromium, iron chromium aluminum, stainless steel,gold, platinum, tungsten molybdenum, or a piezoelectric material. Whenelectrically activated, heating element 76054 may heat liquid intovapor. The atomizer assembly 76050 may further comprise substantiallyannular electrical insulation 76056 interposed between the inner contactmember 76051 and the outer contact member 76053.

FIG. 76O shows the third set of liquid transport apertures 76026C, whichmay extend into atomizer assembly 76050, for transporting liquidaspirated from the absorptive ceramic reservoir into atomizer assembly76050, as mentioned previously herein. The atomizer assembly 76050 maycomprise wick element 76057 arranged for directly contacting liquidaspirated from the absorptive ceramic reservoir in response toaspiration by the user.

As shown in FIG. 76O, heating element support member 76058 may beseparated from the wick element 76057 by an air gap, and may be arrangedfor receiving liquid aspirated from the wick element in response toaspiration the user. Heating element support member 76058 may bethermally coupled with heating element 76054. For example, as shown inFIG. 76O, heating element may be coiled about heating element supportmember 76058.

FIG. 76P of vaporizer assembly 76020 is in cut away view to show cap76021, outer reservoir cover 76022, a resilient o-ring 76023, absorptiveceramic reservoir 76024, a supportive inner reservoir sleeve 76025, anatomizer assembly 76050 and a supportive atomizer fluid interface 76027,which were discussed previously herein with respect to the exploded viewof vaporizer assembly 76020 in FIG. 76F. A shown in cut away view inFIG. 76P, absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may be fluidly coupled withthe atomizer assembly 76050 for providing the liquid to the atomizerassembly 76050, in response to aspiration by the user. As shown, airintake ports 76006 may extend through outer reservoir cover 76022, andmay be fluidly coupled with the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 forbubbling air into the absorptive ceramic reservoir in response toaspiration by the user.

FIG. 76P shows in cut away view the first set of liquid transportapertures 76026A, which may extend through supportive inner reservoirsleeve 76025, for transporting liquid aspirated from the absorptiveceramic reservoir 76024 through the supportive inner reservoir sleeve76025. Similarly, FIG. 76P shows in cut away view the second set ofliquid transport apertures 76026B, which may extend through supportiveatomizer fluid interface 76027, for transporting liquid aspirated fromthe absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 through the supportive atomizerfluid interface 76027. Similarly, FIG. 76P shows in cut away view thethird set of liquid transport apertures 76026C, which may extend intoatomizer assembly 76050, for transporting liquid aspirated from theabsorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 into atomizer assembly 76050. Theatomizer assembly 76050 may comprise wick element 76057 arranged fordirectly contacting liquid aspirated from the absorptive ceramicreservoir in response to aspiration by the user.

In other words, FIG. 76P shows in cut away view the first and secondsets of liquid transport apertures 76026A, 76026B, which may form atleast one liquid aspiration channel 76026A, 76026B, and which may befluidly coupled between the atomizer assembly 76050 and the absorptiveceramic reservoir 76024 for aspirating the liquid from the absorptiveceramic reservoir 76024 in response to aspiration by the user. As shownin cut away view in FIG. 76P, air intake ports 76006 and the liquidaspiration channel 76026A, 76026B may each be arranged at respectiveopposing surfaces of the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024, so as topromote the aspiration of liquid from the absorptive ceramic reservoir76024.

The absorptive ceramic reservoir of the vaporizer may be arranged forfilling, or refilling, by the user dripping liquid. For example, FIG.76Q shows a side view of vaporizer 76000, for illustrating filling orre-filling of the absorptive ceramic reservoir of the vaporizer 76000with liquid, by dripping drops of liquid as show in FIG. 76Q down oralaspiration tube 76004. As shown in further detail in detailed cutawaypartial view in FIG. 76R of the vaporizer, drops of liquid may flowthrough splatter shield 76052, and may flow through wick element 76057of atomizer assembly 76050 as depicted by notional lines and associatedarrowheads. As further depicted by notional lines and associatedarrowheads in FIG. 76Q, liquid may flow from wick element 76057, out ofatomizer assembly 76050 through the third set of liquid transportapertures extending into atomizer assembly 76050, through the second andfirst sets of liquid transport apertures forming the liquid aspirationchannel, and into the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024, so as to fillor refill the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 with liquid.Accordingly, the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 may be arranged withthe liquid aspiration channel for filling or refilling the absorptiveceramic reservoir 76024 by disposing liquid into the liquid aspirationchannel.

FIG. 76S is a detailed cutaway partial view of the vaporizer toillustrate aspiration of liquid into the atomizer assembly 76050, and toillustrate the atomizer assembly 76050 when activated to change theliquid into vapor. Air, as depicted in FIG. 76S by notional arrows, maybe bubbled into the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 through airintake ports 76006 of outer reservoir cover 76022, in response toaspiration by the user. As depicted in FIG. 76S by notional arrows,liquid may be mixed with air and aspirated from absorptive ceramicreservoir 76024 through first and second sets of liquid transportapertures, which may form the liquid aspiration channel. The liquidaspiration channel may be fluidly coupled between the atomizer assembly76050 and the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 for aspirating theliquid from the absorptive ceramic reservoir 76024 to the wick element76057 and heating element support member 76058 of the atomizer assembly76050, in response to aspiration by the user.

The aspiration channel may be coupled with the ceramic wick element76057 for bubbling air into the ceramic wick element 76057 in responseto aspiration by the user's mouth. The aspiration channel 76026A, 76026Bmay be coupled with the ceramic wick element 76057 for aspirating liquidinto the ceramic wick element 76057 in response to aspiration by theuser's mouth.

More generally, the aspiration channel may be coupled with absorptivemember 76057 for bubbling air into the absorptive member 76057 inresponse to aspiration by the user's mouth. The aspiration channel maybe coupled with absorptive member 76057 for aspirating liquid into theabsorptive member 76057 in response to aspiration by the user's mouth.

As depicted in FIG. 76S by notional dashed arrows, vapors may flow fromheating element support member 76058 when heated by electricalactivation of heating element 76054 (and heated by heating elementsupport member 78058), for changing the liquid into the vapors. Splattershield 76052 may be fluidly coupled with lumen of the oral aspirationtube 76004 for substantially shielding the user's mouth from liquidsplatter when the user's mouth aspirates the oral aspiration tube 76004.

Operation of vaporizer 76000 is depicted in various sequential views inFIGS. 77A-77F. In initial sequential side view, FIG. 77A shows vaporizer76000 , which may have housing 76002 comprising oral aspiration tube76004 for aspiration by user's mouth. For illustrative purposes, aprofile of the user's mouth is depicted using dashed lines. As discussedpreviously herein, battery carrier sleeve 76008 may be slidably coupledwith housing 76002 for guiding alternative movement of the batterycarrier sleeve 76008 between an extended position and a retractedposition. The vaporizer 76000 may be electrically activated to producevapor when the battery carrier sleeve is moved into the extendedposition. Vapor production may be suspended, and the vaporizer 76000 maybe temporarily deactivated, when the battery carrier sleeve is movedinto the retracted position.

The battery carrier sleeve 76008 may be disposed within the housing76002. The housing 76002 may have aperture 76010 extending into thehousing 76002 and arranged adjacent to the surface of the batterycarrier sleeve 76008. The surface of the battery carrier sleeve 76008may be arranged so as to be manually accessible through the aperture76010 by the user for controlling the movement of battery carrier sleeve76008 between the retracted position and the extended position. In FIG.77A, the battery carrier sleeve 76008 is shown in retracted position.Similarly, the user's thumb, which is depicted in dashed line asengaging the surface of the battery carrier sleeve 76008, is likewiseretracted. FIG. 77B is a detailed cut away partial view showing thebattery carrier sleeve in the retracted position as in FIG. 77A.

In subsequent sequential side view in FIG. 77C, the battery carriersleeve 76008 is shown in extended position for electrically activatingthe atomizer assembly of vaporizer 76000 to change liquid into vapor.Similarly, the user's thumb, which is depicted in dashed line asengaging the surface of the battery carrier sleeve 76008, is likewiseextended. FIG. 77D is a detailed cut away partial view showing thebattery carrier sleeve in the extended position as in FIG. 77C. Vaporsproduced by the vaporizer in response to such manual activation by theuser are representatively illustrated in FIG. 77C by dashed arrowsextending from oral aspiration tube 76004. The vapors depicted as dashedarrows are shown extending into the user's mouth in response toaspiration by user's mouth. For illustrative purposes, the profile ofthe user's mouth is depicted using dashed lines.

In subsequent sequential side view in FIG. 77E, the battery carriersleeve 76008 is shown once again in retracted position for electricallydeactivating the atomizer assembly of vaporizer 76000. Similarly, theuser's thumb, which is depicted in dashed line as engaging the surfaceof the battery carrier sleeve 76008, is likewise retracted. FIG. 77F isa detailed cut away partial view showing the battery carrier sleeve inthe retracted position as in FIG. 77E. FIG. 77F shows remainderaspirated vapors depicted as dashed line curls in the mouth of the user.For illustrative purposes, the profile of the user's mouth is depictedusing dashed lines.

As particularly shown in FIG. 77D, the atomizer assembly 76050 maycomprise first electrical contact 76051 (for example, including at leastinner contact member 76051) for selectively conducting a flow of batterypower from battery 76042 to the atomizer assembly 76050 when the batterycarrier sleeve 76008 is in the extended position as shown in FIGS. 77D.First electrical contact 76051 (for example, including at least innercontact member 76051) may selectively interrupt the flow of batterypower from battery 76042 to the atomizer assembly 76050 when the batterycarrier sleeve 76008 is in the retracted position, as shown in FIGS. 77Band 77F.

As particularly shown in FIG. 77D, the battery carrier sleeve 76008 andbattery contact post 76042 may be arranged for electrically couplingbattery terminal 76044 of battery 76042 with contact pellet 76034 andfirst electrical contact 76051 of the atomizer assembly 76050, when thebattery carrier sleeve 76008 is in the extended position. Batterycarrier sleeve 76008 and battery contact post 76042 may be arranged forelectrically isolating the battery terminal 76044 from contact pellet76034 and first electrical contact 76051 of the atomizer assembly 76050,when the battery carrier sleeve 76008 is in the retracted position, asshown in FIGS. 77B and 77F. In particular, when the battery carriersleeve 76008 is in the retracted position as shown in FIGS. 77B and 77F,there may be an air gap interposed between the battery contact post76042 and contact pellet/first electrical contact 76034,76051 of theatomizer assembly 76050, for electrically isolating battery contact post76042 from contact pellet/first electrical contact 76034,76051. As shownin FIGS. 77B, 77D and 77F, bushing 76036 may retain contact pellet 76034in electrical coupling with the first electrical contact 76051 of theatomizer assembly 76050 (for example, with the extremity of innercontact member 76051 of the atomizer assembly 76050).

FIGS. 77B and 77F show expanded resilient member 76038, for exampleexpanded spring 76038, which may be disposed within the housing sleeve76048 and bushing 76036. Resilient member 76038 may be coupled with thebattery carrier sleeve 76008 for urging the battery carrier sleeve 76008into the retracted position, as shown in FIGS. 77B and 77F. FIG. 77Dshows resilient member 76038 as compressed, for example compressedspring 76038, when battery carrier sleeve 76008 is in the extendedposition shown in FIG. 77D.

In other words, FIGS. 77A-77F show operation of an electrical switchcomprising battery carrier sleeve 76008 slidably coupled with thehousing for guiding alternative movement of the battery carrier sleeve76008 between an extended position and a retracted position. Theelectrical switch may be closed for activating the atomizer assembly76050 to change the liquid into the vapor when the battery carriersleeve 76008 is in the extended position. The electrical switch may beopen for deactivating the atomizer assembly 76050 when the batterycarrier sleeve 76008 is in the retracted position. The electrical switchmay be manually controllable by the user of the vaporizer, by manualcontrol of the movement of the battery carrier sleeve 76008.

The electrical switch may be a momentary on-off switch. Momentary on-offswitch may be “on”, as shown in FIG. 77D, so long as the user may holdthe battery carrier sleeve 76008 in the extended position, againstrestoring force of compressed resilient member 76038 (in other words,against restoring force of compressed spring 76038.) Momentary on-offswitch may be “off”, as shown in FIG. 77B and 77F, so long as the usermay relax hold on the battery carrier sleeve 76008, so that batterycarrier sleeve is restored to retracted position, by restoring force asresilient member 76038 expands (in other words, as spring 76038expands.) Accordingly, the electrical switch may be normally open, untilclosed by operation of the electrical switch.

FIG. 78 shows an alternative embodiment, which is generally similar tothe other embodiment just discussed for FIGS. 76A-76S and 77A-77F,except that in the alternative embodiment of FIG. 78, the previouslydiscussed resilient member may be omitted. In the alternative embodimentof FIG. 78, magnetically opposing magnetic members 78034, 78040 mayprovide the restoring force to urge the battery carrier 78008 back intothe retracted position. In other words, contact pellet 78034 and batterycontact post 78040 may be magnetized and arranged with magneticallyopposing and magnetically repulsive polarities. Notional arrows areshown in FIG. 78 to depict lines of repulsive magnetic force, for urgingthe battery carrier 78008 into the retracted position.

FIG. 79 shows another alternative embodiment, which is generally similarto the other embodiment just discussed for FIGS. 76A-76S and 77A-77F,except that in the alternative embodiment of FIG. 79, the previouslydiscussed absorbent ceramic reservoir may be omitted (and associatedouter reservoir cover, resilient o-ring 76023 and supportive innerreservoir sleeve may likewise be omitted.) Without the absorbent ceramicreservoir for volume storage of liquid, liquid capacity of thealternative embodiment shown in FIG. 79 may be different. For example,some liquid capacity may be provided by liquid disposed in the wick ofthe atomizer assembly.

Without absorbent ceramic reservoir, vaporizer 79000 shown in FIG. 79may have a more slender housing 79002 coupled with oral aspiration tube79004 for transporting vapor to a user's mouth. Battery carrier sleeve79008 may be slidably coupled with the housing 79002 for guidingalternative movement of the battery carrier sleeve 79008 betweenextended position and retracted position. Vaporizer 79000 may beelectrically activated to produce vapor when the battery carrier sleeveis moved into the extended position. Vapor production may be suspended,and the vaporizer 79000 may be temporarily deactivated, when the batterycarrier sleeve is moved into the retracted position.

The battery carrier sleeve 79008 may be disposed within the housing79002. The housing 79002 may have an aperture 79010 extending into thehousing 79002 and arranged adjacent to a surface of the battery carriersleeve 79008. The surface of the battery carrier sleeve 79008 may bearranged so as to be manually accessible through the aperture 79010 by auser for controlling the movement of battery carrier sleeve 79008between the retracted position and the extended position.

FIGS. 80A and 80B show yet another alternative embodiment. FIGS. 80A and80B are partial cutaway views showing oral aspiration tube 8004 andsplatter shield 80052. FIGS. 80A and 80B particular show alternativerotation orientation side views oral aspiration tube 8004 and splattershield 80052. FIG. 80A is oriented to show a narrow width dimensionalong a minor axis of splatter shield 80052. Air gaps shown in FIG. 80A,which may be defined between the oral aspiration tube 8004 and thenarrow width dimension of the splatter shield 80052 may provide forvapor flow around the splatter shield 80052.

FIG. 80B is oriented a quarter turn relative to FIG. 80A, so as to showa broad width dimension along a major axis of splatter shield 80052. Thebroad width dimension of the splatter shield 80052 shown in FIG. 80B mayprovide for retention engagement of the broad width dimension ofsplatter shield 80052 by the oral aspiration tube 80004. The oralaspiration tube 80004 may be formed about the broad width dimension ofsplatter shield 80052 in retention engagement of the broad widthdimension of splatter shield 80052. The oral aspiration tube 80004 maybe coupled with the splatter shield 80052 so as to retain thenon-flammable spatter shield 80052 with the oral aspiration tube 80004when the oral aspiration tube 80004 is removed from the vaporizer.

FIG. 81 is a flow diagram of a vaporizer operation process 8100according to one embodiment. In accordance with process 8100 shown inFIG. 81, the process may begin with providing 8102 solderless pressurecontacts of a heating element. The process 8100 may continue withcoupling 8104 a flow of power through the solderless pressure contactsto electrically activate the heating element. The process 8100 maycontinue with changing 8106 a liquid into a vapor in response toelectrical activation of the heating element. The process 8100 maycontinue with interrupting 8108 the flow of power through the solderlesspressure contacts to electrically deactivate the heating element. Oncethe flow of power through the solderless pressure contacts has beeninterrupted 8108, the process 8100 can end. FIG. 82 is a flow diagram ofa vaporizer assembly process 8200 according to one embodiment. Inaccordance with process 8200 shown in FIG. 82, the process may beginwith arranging 8202 a wick element proximate to a heating element havingfirst and second extremities. The process 8200 may continue witharranging 8204 the heating element proximate to an inner contact member.The process 8200 may continue with applying 8206 a first pressure memberto sandwich the first extremity of the heating element over said innercontact member to effect first solderless pressure electrical contacts.The process 8200 may continue with arranging 8208 the second extremityof the heating element proximate to an outer contact member. The process8200 may continue with applying 8210 second pressure member to sandwichthe second extremity of the heating element over said outer contactmember to effect second solderless pressure electrical contacts. Oncethe second pressure member has been applied 8210, the process 8200 canend.

The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different aspects,embodiments or implementations may yield one or more of the followingadvantages. One advantage may be that soldering of the heating elementmay be substantially avoided. Another advantage may be that toxic leadand/or toxic lead vapors of lead based solder may be substantiallyavoided. Another advantage is that upon heating of the atomizerassembly, user inhalation of toxins from lead based solders may besubstantially avoided. Another advantage is that solderless pressurecontacts may provide ease or efficiency in assembly.

In an embodiment, direct writing of a conductive metal or conductivematerial to a heating element support member or wire guide, or othercomponent which performs the function of a heating element can be usedto construct a heating element or wire guide. Direct writing of theseconductive materials or metals can be done instead of the metal wireand/or metal ribbon described previously herein. Direct writing expandsthe materials that can be used for the heating element beyond a metalwire or metal ribbon. In addition, metal deposition methods such asplating, electroplating, or sputtering can be used to make the sameheating element and/or contact functionality as described hereinafter asperformed through the implementation of direct writing methods.Likewise, the use of embedded metal into formed ceramic, or similar,components can be used to make the heating element and/or contactfunctionality as described hereinafter as performed through theimplementation of direct writing methods. Embedded metals can be usefacilitate electrical connection to direct written elements.

“Direct Writing” typically refers to a printing or patterning methodthat employs a computerized, motion-controlled stage with a motionlesspattern generating device to dispense flowable materials in a designedpattern onto a surface. Conductive flowable materials (a.k.a., “inks”)that can be used in direct write applications include, but are notlimited to: (i) polymeric—metallic particles in a polymeric matrix,primarily for polymeric substrates Silver, graphite, tungsten, copper;(ii) cermet—metallic particles in a glass matrix, primarily for ceramicsubstrates, gold, platinum, silver; (iii) nanoparticulate silver; and,(iv) specialty electrode materials such as titanium, stainless steel,niobium, and/or titanium nitride.

Substrates (i.e., surfaces) that can be used in direct writeapplications include, but are not limited to ceramics and metal.Examples of suitable ceramics include, but are not limited to: alumina,aluminum nitride, yttria-stabilized zirconia, and pyrex. Examples ofsuitable metals include, but are not limited to: Stainless steels (e.g.,316L, 302, 304 and 430), nitinol, and titanium alloys.

In an embodiment, a heating element is comprised of a conductive(flowable) material deposited on a substrate (support member). Bydepositing the heating element material on a support member, the heatingelement is now thermally coupled to the support member through theprocess of direct writing the heating element directly to the supportmember. The heating element is created using the process of directwriting can be substantially L-shaped etc., as described herein. Forexample, direct writing can be used to construct heating elements inplace of wires and/or metal clips illustrated in FIG. 35A, FIG. 59A,FIG. 76K, and/or FIG. 76L. Taking FIG. 76K as an example, direct writingcan be used to construct heating element 76054 on support member 76058.

FIG. 83 illustrates a perspective view of a directly written heatingelement disposed through a proximal wick element of a personal vaporizerunit. As shown in FIG. 83, a directly written conductor or heatingelement 839 may be wrapped around a portion of proximal wick 136 byrunning the conductor or heating element 139 at least part way intointernal wire passageway 136-1, around the distal end of proximal wick136, and through external wire passageway 136-2 to return toapproximately its point of origin. In another embodiment, a directlywritten conductor or heating element 839 may be run primarily alongexternal wire passageway 136-2 and not through internal wire passageway136-1 (not shown in FIG. 76). The heating element 839 may, when personalvaporizer 100 is activated, heat proximal wick 136 in order tofacilitate vaporization of a substance.

FIG. 83A illustrates an end view of contact points for a directlywritten heating element disposed through a proximal wick element of apersonal vaporizer unit. Contact pads 831-832 to make electricalconnections with heating element 839 may also be directly written toproximal wick 136. As shown in FIG. 83A, contact pads 831-832 aredirectly written to an end (e.g., proximal end) of wick 136. Thesecontact pads are electrically connected to heating element 839 bydirectly written conductors and/or a portion of heating element 839.

FIG. 84 is a perspective view showing directly written heating elementsdisposed on the wire guides of FIGS. 54-58. As can be seen in FIG. 84, adirectly written conductor or heating element 849 may be written on wireguide 237 and/or wire guide 238. Contact with heating element 849 may bemade by directly written conductors connected to contact pad on theproximal end of wick 236. FIG. 84A illustrates an end view of contactpoints on a wick which supports wire guides having directly writtenheating elements. As shown in FIG. 84A, contact pads 841-842 aredirectly written to an end (e.g., proximal end) of wick 236. Thesecontact pads are electrically connected to heating element 849 bydirectly written conductors and/or a portion of heating element 849interfacing with directly written conductors on wick 236.

FIG. 85 illustrates two opposing side views of a wire guide that has adirectly written heating element. As can be seen in FIG. 85, on one sideof a wire guide 857 (e.g., wire guide 237), contacts pads 851 and 852are directly written. When assembled, these contact pads 851-852 wouldbe in direct contact with conductors on a wick (e.g., wick 236). On theother side of wire guide 857, an example directly written heatingelement 859 is illustrated.

FIG. 86 illustrates two opposing side views of a support element thathas a directly written heating element. FIG. 86 illustrates acylindrical support element. As can be seen in FIG. 86, on one side of asupport element 867 (e.g., wire guide 237), a first contact pad 861 isdirectly written. A second contact pad 862 is placed on an end of thesupport element. On the other side of support element 867 from the firstcontact pad, an example directly written heating element 869 isillustrated.

The above description and associated figures teach the best mode of theinvention. The following claims specify the scope of the invention. Notethat some aspects of the best mode may not fall within the scope of theinvention as specified by the claims. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that the features described above can be combined in variousways to form multiple variations of the invention. As a result, theinvention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above,but only by the following claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A vaporizer comprising: a heating elementdirectly written to a support member, the heating element includingfirst and second extremities; an inner contact member; and a firstpressure member to sandwich the first extremity of the heating elementover said inner contact member to effect first solderless pressurecontacts.
 2. A vaporizer as recited in claim 1 wherein the inner contactmember and the first pressure member comprise directly written metalmembers.
 3. A vaporizer as recited in claim 1 wherein the inner contactmember includes at least an inner contact post.
 4. A vaporizer asrecited in claim 1 further comprising: an outer contact member; and asecond pressure member to sandwich the second extremity of the heatingelement over the outer contact member to effect second solderlesspressure contacts.
 5. A vaporizer as recited in claim 4 wherein theouter contact member and the second pressure member comprise directlywritten metal members.
 6. A vaporizer as recited in claim 4 wherein thesecond pressure member comprises at least a portion of an oralaspiration tube fluidly coupled with the heating element fortransporting vapor from the heating element to a user's mouth.
 7. Avaporizer as recited in claim 4 wherein the outer contact membercomprises an outer contact sleeve.
 8. A vaporizer as recited in claim 1further comprising a directly written outer contact member wherein theheating element is electrically coupled between the inner contact memberand the outer contact member for energizing the heating element when theheating element is activated.
 9. A vaporizer comprising: a wick elementfor directly contacting a liquid to be changed into a vapor; a directlywritten heating element having first and second extremities; an outercontact member; and pressure member to sandwich the second extremity ofthe heating element over said outer contact member to effect solderlesspressure electrical contacts.
 10. A vaporizer as recited in claim 9wherein the outer contact member and the pressure member comprisedirectly written metal members.
 11. A vaporizer as recited in claim 9wherein the pressure member comprises at least a portion of an oralaspiration tube fluidly coupled with the heating element fortransporting vapor from the heating element to a user's mouth.
 12. Avaporizer as recited in claim 9 wherein the outer contact membercomprises an outer contact sleeve.
 13. A vaporizer as recited in claim 9wherein the heating element is substantially “L” shaped.
 14. A vaporizerassembly method comprising: directly writing a heating element havingfirst and second extremities to a support member; arranging the heatingelement proximate to an inner contact member; applying a first pressuremember to sandwich the first extremity of the heating element over saidinner contact member to effect first solderless pressure electricalcontacts.
 15. A vaporizer assembly method as recited in claim 14 furthercomprising arranging the second extremity of the heating elementproximate to an outer contact member.
 16. A vaporizer assembly method asrecited in claim 15 further comprising applying second pressure memberto sandwich the second extremity of the heating element over said outercontact member to effect second solderless pressure electrical contacts.